It’s no secret that Western wear is everywhere right now. Whether you’re listening to artists dive into different genres or spotting more cowboy hats than usual, trends such as coastal cowgirl make it easy to to add a bit of extra flair to your wardrobe. When it comes to embodying the spirit of the Wild West, cowboy boots are one of the most versatile ways to go about it.
However, is this trend good for your feet? We asked foot and ankle surgeon, Dr. Buck Smith, for his insight. We also asked multiple fashion experts about how to find the right style and fit for you — and they even shared their favorite cowboy boots to shop.
Plus, editors on our team recommended their go-to cowboy boots for outdoor wear, concerts and more — starting at $46.
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Ideal for comfort$undefined$99.95
Are there different kinds of cowboy boots?
Just like there are different types of sneakers, there are different types of cowboy boots. What sets them apart are the materials they’re made out of, their height, width and toe.
“Cowboy boots can be made out of various materials, including traditional leather and suede or exotic skins (such as alligator),” says Elizabeth Ruiz, a senior footwear designer Tecovas.
The material they’re made out of can help determine their durability and longevity, adds Ruiz. For example, boots made out of faux leather might not be as durable or last as long compared to those made out of traditional leather or animal skin.
Also, the height and width of cowboy boots play into the type of look you’re going for. Wearing a mini skirt? Taller boots might be the move. Rocking bootcut jeans? A shorter boot could be your best bet. The width all depends on your calf size. Many brands offer width options, while some don’t.
Finally, there are four “distinct” toe types a boot can come in: pointed, snip, square and round.
Best cowboy boots, according to experts
Budget friendly: Coconuts by Matisse Women’s Gaucho Boots
- Extremely comfortable
- Currently on sale
- Some said soles wear easily
Toe: Pointed | Calf Width: Medium | Sizes: 5.5-11, including half sizes | Colors: 18 | Material: Faux leather
Add a pop of panache to your outfit with these chic boots. If you’re opting for the gray cowboy boot route, Goodman suggests pairing the shoes with a white flowy dress or a shorter white skirt. One customer said these boots fit her “skinny calf” and another one shared this pair was reliable after a long day of walking and is more comfortable “than tennis shoes.”
Lightning strike: Chinese Laundry Josea Western Boot
- Lightning bolt detailing
- Pull-on tabs on either side
- Limited colors available
Toe: Pointed | Calf Width: N/A | Sizes: 5-11, including half sizes | Colors: 1 | Material: “Manmade”
“I’ve been into distressed brown and deep red lately — they feel modern but super wearable,” says celebrity stylist Stephanie Escobar. “Deep red is having a moment right now; it adds a fun pop of color and kind of acts like a neutral with denim, white or black. I’m also into two-toned boots when I want a little extra personality without going full statement. I usually skip suede — it’s cute but not the most practical day-to-day.”
Cushioned and cozy: Ariat Women’s Fatbaby Heritage Dapper Western Cowboy Boots
- Nearly 1,000 5-star reviews
- Described as solid and sturdy
- Reviewers recommend sizing up
Toe: Round | Calf Width: Wide, regular | Sizes: 5.5-12, including half and wide sizes | Colors: 6 | Material: Synthetic leather
Ariat creates boots for working and riding, but they also have some stylish boots, Goodman says. These, for example, feature embroidered touches that elevate the look. Even better, they’re made with the brand’s Four Layer Rebound technology, which cushions and stabilizes the foot for all-day comfort.
Pearls and heels: Azalea Wang Belia-Bone Block Western Bootie
- Pearl studs add 3D detailing
- Limited colors, sizes avail.
Toe: Pointed | Calf Width: N/A | Sizes: 6-11, including half sizes | Colors: 1 | Material: Faux leather
“When I choose cowboy boots, I gravitate towards more modern styles with embellishments such as colorful rhinestones, pearls or fringes that add a little extra bling and oomph in my steps,” says footwear maker and designer, Yvonne Liao.
Liao recommends these “for the beautiful pearl details that adds an extra touch of glitz.” She continues, “I would pair the shoes with either a simple vest and denim shorts, or just a shirt dress so that the focus is all on the shoes.”
Versatile design: Idyllwind Wheeler Western Boot
- Made with genuine leather
- Detailing on sides
- Not many online reviews
Toe: Snip | Calf Width: N/A | Sizes: 6-11, including half and wide sizes | Colors: 1 | Material: Synthetic leather
“This is a great classic pair in a rich brown leather that can be styled so many different ways,” says stylist Samantha Brown. “Breezy dresses, knits and even flowy chiffon pieces would be amazing with this boot.”
Best cowboy boots, according to editors
A pop of color: Tscoyuki Women’s Embroidered Western Knee High Boots
- Affordable option
- Variety of fun colors
- May scuff easily
Toe: Pointed | Calf Width: N/A | Sizes: 5-12.5, including half sizes | Colors: 12 | Material: Premium leather, faux suede lining
For a taller boot that would look cute paired with shorts or a mini dress, these boots serve as a colorful option. Available in 12 colors, from fiery red to a suede blue iteration, Shop TODAY editor Vivien Moon says that this one requires little to no breaking in and is “constantly getting compliments” on them. An added plus is that she notes they’re lightweight, meaning they won’t wear you down during a night of line dancing.
Zip-up style: Crown Vintage Women’s Sila Western Boots
- Reviews note comfortable fit
- Versatile style
- Only two color choices
Toe: Pointed | Calf Width: Medium and wide | Sizes: 6-11, including half sizes | Colors: 2 | Material: Leather
Available in multiple calf widths, this boot also comes in an inclusive amount of sizes. The style features a pointed toe with a knee-high silhouette that is also available in an ivory color. Production associate Audrey Ekman likes these because “they’re so cute and versatile.”
Floral embroidery: Dingo Primrose Leather Bootie
- Unique embroidered pattern
- Ankle length
- Not as neutral as some options
Toe: Pointed | Calf Width: Medium | Sizes: 6-11, including half sizes | Colors: 6 | Material: Leather
"I [Espinal] love my new booties for may reasons. First, the footbed is comfortable and features cushioning, ideal for standing long hours. Second, the outsole is made from a rubber material that is helpful when walking in slippery roads. It has great traction and the boots are easy to pull on. These are going to be my go-to for the summer months!"
Boots with longevity: Ariat Women’s Heritage R Toe Western Boots
- Can be dressed up or down
- Comfortable sole
- Some recommend sizing up
Toe: “R” toe | Calf Width: Wide and medium | Sizes: 5.5-11, including half sizes | Colors: 2 | Material: Leather
I [Hoeger] thrifted these boots and they’re my most worn and comfiest pair. It probably helps that they were already broken in by somebody else, but the texture and scalloped edges help them stand out among my collection.
I always earn compliments on the scalloped edges and they’ve proven to be durable and comfortable — helping me stand for hours during concerts or a night out.
Square toe box: Boot Barn Women’s Idyllwind Outlaw Performance Western Boots
- Unique color variations
- Broad square toe is roomier
- More casual option
Toe: Square | Calf Width: N/A | Sizes: 6-11, including half sizes | Colors: 4 | Material: Leather
Noted as a “great intro pair” by production coordinator Camryn Privette, these boots offer a square toe, perfect for those getting used to the shape and structure of boots.
“They were comfy straight out of the box and I love the distressing and square toe,” she says. “I love these so much but make sure to size up as they are a little on the smaller side. Will have these for years to come!”
Flower power: Dingo 1969 Women’s Flower Power Suede Boots
- Fun, unique patterns
- Flattering knee-high length
- Less versatile than some pairs
Toe: Snip | Calf Width: Medium | Sizes: 6-11, including half sizes | Colors: 7 | Material: Suede
“These are, by far, my new favorite boots,” says commerce editor Amanda Fama.
“I love a floral pattern, and the flowers embroidered into the suede fabric add pops of color that match various outfits. I love the knee-high length, too — and even though there’s a slight heel, these are comfortable to walk in for hours and hours. I’ve even walked a few miles home from work in them and wasn’t in pain.”
Ideal for summer: The Frye Company Billy Short Bootie
- Shorter length
- Quality crafted leather
- Some had issues with sizing
Toe: Pointed | Calf Width: N/A | Sizes: 5.5-12, including half sizes | Colors: 8 | Material: Available in both leather and suede
"I snagged a pair of short Frye cowboy boots at an outlet store years ago — they’re one of my proudest shopping finds, and I’m excited to break them out for concerts this summer," says senior partnerships editor, Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil. "I don’t think the exact style is still on the market, but these have a similar look (and some colors are on sale!). I’m always impressed with Frye for quality leather and construction."
Endless colors available: Tecovas Women’s The Annie Boot
- Superior comfort and quality
- Some say they run slightly big
Toe: Pointed | Calf Width: N/A | Sizes: 5.5-12, including half sizes | Colors: 13 | Material: Bovine
“I’ve truly never been so obsessed with a pair of boots in my life,” says Privette. “These are so comfy, high-quality and quite literally- perfect. The fresh leather smell right out the box makes me want to jump on a horse and gallop away in the sunset.”
It's no secret that the Shop TODAY team is hooked when it comes to Tecovas, with multiple members touting their boots as a top choice when it comes to stylish, comfortable options.
"I’d been eyeing the Annie boots from Tecovas for over a year now and with the Cowboy Carter tour coming up, I knew it was the perfect time to grab them," says associate editor, Kamari Stewart. "I got the red pair because they’re the perfect shade of red that can easily be dressed up or down. I’ve never had cowboy boots before but I’m starting with some of the best and I’m excited to work them into my regular wardrobe rotation."
Disclaimer: Shop TODAY editors’ Tecova boot recommendations were not impacted by the expert from Tecova we interviewed for this piece.
Worth the splurge: Tecovas The Jolene
- Unique vintage design
- Comfortable and stylish
- Pricier option
Toe: Pointed | Calf Width: N/A | Sizes: 5-12, including half sizes | Colors: 4 | Material: Cowhide
When we said the Shop TODAY team was obsessed with Tecovas, we weren't lying. Editorial director Adrianna Brach adores these low-rise booties, that are available in four colors and have a horseshoe-like pattern on each side.
They're crafted out of cowhide, that the brand says blends comfort with durability.
How to style cowboy boots
Cowboy boots can be worn year-round with jeans, skirts, dresses — you name it. They even can be seen poolside with a swimsuit; the options for styling are practically endless.
“Cowboy boots are an American classic,” Goodman says of the trend. “They cycle in, in summer, because they really are a statement piece that goes perfectly with minimalist and simple outfits. When you’re running out the door and you want to keep it breezy and cool, they’re the perfect foot accessory.”
If going with a spring or summer look, Goodman recommends wearing mid-calf or tall versions with shorts and a button-down. “Another thing that I love this time of year [for warmer weather] are flowy dresses, so pairing the cowboy boots with an amazing flowy dress or a flowy skirt,” she says. To really show the boots off, wear a skirt or dress with a hem that’s a bit higher than the top of the boots or opt for something with a slit along the side, she adds.
“Cowboy boots are such a fun way to add personality to an otherwise simple outfit,” says Escobar. “I love wearing them with shorts and an oversized button-down shirt — it gives that effortless, cool-girl energy. They also look amazing with airy dresses; I like the way the structure and edge of the boots contrast with soft, flowy silhouettes. It makes the outfit feel more dynamic and styled.”
Do’s and don’ts of cowboy boots
- Do break them in gradually. Ruiz advises against going 0 to 100 and packing a brand new pair of boots for a girl’s trip to Nashville, for example. “Wear them for short periods initially to avoid discomfort,” she says.
- Do use boot trees. Boot trees are wooden structures placed inside cowboy boots to keep their shape and form when not in use. They also help to “prevent creasing,” says Ruiz.
- Do practice regular cleanings. “Wipe off dirt and stains with a damp cloth and use a leather cleaner or saddle soap specifically designed for cowboy boots when needed,” says Ruiz.
- Do condition the leather. To keep the leather looking like new, condition it regularly.
- Do wear in fair weather conditions. “Avoid prolonged exposure to water or wet conditions, as it can damage the leather and weaken the structure of the boots,” says Ruiz. Wearing your boots in extreme weather conditions can cause damage to the leather and structure of the boots.
- Don’t use harsh chemicals such as ammonia and bleach when cleaning, “as they can damage the leather and cause discoloration,” says Ruiz.
- Don’t let them dry in direct heat. Post-cleaning, don’t set them out in the sun or a warm spot to dry, or don’t use a hair dryer, as it “can cause the leather to crack or shrink,” according to Ruiz.
- Don’t store them when wet. Allowing them to air dry will help to prevent mold and mildew growth.
- Don’t force a bad fit. Forcing your feet into too small of a boot can lead to blisters and discomfort, while forcing your feet into too big of a shoe can cause them to fall off and have instability.
- Don’t use abrasive materials when cleaning, as they can damage the leather, says Ruiz. Use a microfiber towel or a brush.
How we chose
The Shop TODAY editors and writers have been wearing and pairing cowboy boots with their office attire before it was trendy, so we figured it was about time to dedicate an article towards our favorite accessory in the Western wear trend.
We interviewed expert sources and use our own personal experiences with the product and brand to make shopping easier for our readers.
Meet the experts
- Samantha Brown is a professional and celebrity stylist.
- Stephanie Escobar is a celebrity fashion stylist with over 10 years of experience across editorial, red carpet and tour styling.
- Amy E. Goodman is a style expert whose expertise covers a broad range of areas, from home décor to wardrobes.
- Yvonne Liao is a footwear maker and designer based in New York City. She creates vibrant, colorful and comfortable shoes for urban fashionistas.
- Elizabeth Ruiz is a senior footwear designer for the western wear brand, Tecovas.
- Dr. Buck Smith is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who focuses on minimally invasive treatments, joint replacements and joint arthroscopy. He has also worked with professional athletes.
